The Western Cape government says it continues to implement a coordinated, multi-disciplinary response to mitigate the impact of the intense weather system that has swept across parts of the province, with the Garden Route and parts of the Central Karoo among the hardest-hit areas.
Acting Premier of the Western Cape, Dr Ivan Meyer, and acting provincial MEC of Local Government, Anroux Marais, on Thursday provided an update on measures implemented by government and disaster management stakeholders in response to the severe weather conditions.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had earlier issued a warning of an intense cut-off low bringing disruptive rain and strong winds to parts of the province.
“The Western Cape government, together with affected municipalities, disaster management teams, emergency services and humanitarian partners, continue to respond to severe weather impacts,” the provincial government said.
A Joint Operations Centre (JOC) has since been activated through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) to coordinate the response.
Tragically, one person has died as a result of the severe weather conditions.
“Our thoughts are with the family, loved ones and colleagues of Ms Lauren Fredericks, who was a social auxiliary worker at the Western Cape Department of Social Development.
“Our priority during disasters is always to protect lives. Ms Fredericks’ death is deeply unfortunate. Our most sincere condolences go to her family,” Meyer said.
Numerous incidents of localised flooding have been reported, while several roads in affected areas remain closed until further notice.
Authorities have urged road users to avoid flooded roads and comply with all road closure notices.
While the weather system affecting the Garden Route has since been downgraded, authorities warned that the risk of flooding remains.
Emergency shelters, food provision and support services have been activated in several municipalities to assist displaced residents and vulnerable communities.
In Bitou Municipality, approximately 58 people are being sheltered at the Kranshoek Griqua Church, while a further 138 people are being accommodated at the Wittedrift Community Hall.
Additional displaced residents are also being housed at community halls in Qolweni, Kwanokuthula and New Horizon.
In Knysna Municipality, about 200 people are currently being accommodated at a local church, while some residents from Masifunde and Hornlee have been relocated to community halls as a precautionary measure.
In Oudtshoorn, 25 people are being accommodated at the Toekomsrus Community Hall, where food and blankets have been provided.
The provincial government said an additional 10 people remain cut off by floodwaters but are not believed to be in immediate danger.
“All 64 occupants at the Oudtshoorn Mountain Resort are safe. The resort supervisor and staff remain on site, and rescue operations will be undertaken at first light tomorrow should they become necessary,” the provincial government said.
Meanwhile, in Prince Albert Municipality, 80 people displaced in Klaarstroom are being housed in a community hall, with hot meals provided by the Central Karoo District Municipality.
In Beaufort West Municipality, a rescue operation successfully assisted two adults and two children trapped by rising water at Grootvlei Farm in the Loxton area.
The provincial government said it remains in close coordination with municipalities, disaster management centres, emergency services and community organisations to monitor conditions and respond where required.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid flooded areas and roads, and follow official safety advisories and emergency instructions.
“I urge all residents to remain safe and not take unnecessary risks. All stakeholders – disaster management teams, law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and faith-based groups – have been working incredibly hard under difficult conditions to keep residents out of harm’s way. I cannot thank you enough. We have all shown how we can come together to help one another,” Meyer said.
The acting provincial MEC of Local Government, Marais, also thanked all role players involved in the disaster response.
“To every person and organisation involved in this response: your commitment, professionalism, and service are deeply appreciated. Thank you for standing together in support of our communities during this challenging period,” Marais said. – SAnews.gov.za
